In a method for controlling power output of an internal combustion engine with an external ignition system, a fuel injection system is provided for injecting in an injection step fuel into the combustion chamber. At least one inlet valve for each cylinder of the combustion engine is provided for determining the charge input of the combustion chamber during an intake stroke of the internal combustion engine. With a control device a relative phase position between a first and second camshaft operating at identical rpm is set for determining an opening function of the inlet valve. The opening function is defined by the stroke and duration of the open state of the inlet valve. A position of the control device is adjusted according to an accelerator pedal position and operational parameter of the combustion engine. The ignition timing and/or the amount of injected fuel is controlled directly according to the position of the control device and the rpm of the combustion engine.